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{{Short description|Celtic bard}}
{{notability|Biographies|date=March 2018}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2022}}
{{Infobox person
{{Infobox person
| name = Bert Biscoe
| name = Bert Biscoe
| image = Bert biscoe.jpg
| image = Bert biscoe.jpg
| alt = Picture of a Caucasian bearded man with gray hair and glasses standing against a blue background.
| alt = Picture of a Caucasian bearded man with gray hair and glasses standing against a blue background.
| caption = Bert Biscoe in 2015
| caption = Biscoe in 2015
| birth_date = {{Birth year and age|1960}} (approx)
| birth_date = 23 December 1952
| birth_place = [[Cornwall]]
| birth_name = Martin Biscoe
| nationality =
| nationality = [[British people|British]]
| other_names = Viajor Gans Geryow
| other_names = ''Viajor Gans Geryow'' ([[Cornish language|Kernowek]])
| occupation = Bard, Councillor, Historian
| occupation = Cornwall Councillor
| known_for = [[bard]] of the [[Cornish Gorseth]]
| known_for = [[Bard]] of the [[Cornish Gorseth]]<br />[[Mayor]] of [[Truro]]
}}
}}


'''Bert Biscoe''' is a [[Cornish people|Cornish]] politician, historian and [[bard]] of the [[Cornish Gorseth]] also known by the [[bardic name]] '''Viajor Gans Geryow'''.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Tregarthen|first1=J.C.|title=John Penrose : a romance of the Land's End|date=2004|publisher=Cornwall Editions|location=Fowey|isbn=9781904880028|edition=[New ed.].|url=https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=W6FnUJ4ze6cC&pg=PR9&lpg=PR9&dq=bert+biscoe+bard&source=bl&ots=uLhODAsSYI&sig=5Im2skFEgbZxRlUUOm7tWgqjSro&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjHr5nzhaLWAhUkCsAKHQj2ABAQ6AEIWDAJ#v=onepage&q=bert%20biscoe%20bard&f=false|accessdate=13 September 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Eseli Konsel Gorsedh Kernow|url=http://gorsedhkernow.org.uk/councilmembers.html|website=Gorsedh Kernow|publisher=Gorsedh Kernow|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref> He represents [[Cornwall Council]]'s [[Truro, Cornwall|Truro]] [[Boscawen (District)|Boscawen District]] as an independent Cornwall Councillor and [[Truro City Council]] councillor. Bert Biscoe is known locally for his work as a [[Historian|local historian]]<ref>{{cite web|title=Squeeze Guts|url=http://www.cornwalllive.com/news/history/secrets-squeeze-guts-alley-truros-364881|website=cornwall live|publisher=cornwall live|accessdate=29 August 2017}}</ref> and for his [[activist|activism]] related to the [[Cornish people|Cornish identity]] debate.<ref name="auto">{{cite web|last1=Simon|first1=Parker|title=Cornwall wants to go it alone|url=https://www.theguardian.com/society/2001/jan/12/localgovernment.devolution|website=The Guardian|publisher=The Guardian|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref>
'''Bert Biscoe''' [[Doctor of Letters|DL]] (born 1952), also known by the [[bardic name]] '''''Viajor Gans Geryow''''',<ref>{{cite book|last1=Tregarthen|first1=J.C.|title=John Penrose : a romance of the Land's End|date=2004|publisher=Cornwall Editions|location=Fowey|isbn=9781904880028|edition=[New ed.].|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=W6FnUJ4ze6cC&q=bert+biscoe+bard&pg=PR9|accessdate=13 September 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Eseli Konsel Gorsedh Kernow|url=http://gorsedhkernow.org.uk/councilmembers.html|website=Gorsedh Kernow|accessdate=30 August 2017|archive-date=30 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170830005538/http://www.gorsedhkernow.org.uk/councilmembers.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> is a [[Cornish people|Cornish]] [[politician]], historian and [[bard]] of the [[Cornish Gorseth]].<ref>[https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/1791874/Man-claims-to-have-seen-the-afterlife www.express.co.uk]</ref> Biscoe represented [[Cornwall Council]]'s [[Truro, Cornwall|Truro]] [[Boscawen (District)|Boscawen District]] as an independent Cornwall Councillor until 2019, serving as an independent [[Truro City Council]] Councillor for the new Boscawen & Redannick Ward.<ref>[https://www.itv.com/news/westcountry/2022-06-02/platinum-jubilee-parade-fills-the-streets-of-truro www.itv.com]</ref>

In 2012, his book of poems called "Trurra" won a [[Waterstones]] Publishers Award at the Holyer An Gof literary competition.<ref>http://gorsedhkernow.org.uk/HolyeranGof/publication_winners_2012.html</ref>
Bert Biscoe is known for his work as a [[Historian|local historian]]<ref>{{cite web|title=Squeeze Guts|url=http://www.cornwalllive.com/news/history/secrets-squeeze-guts-alley-truros-364881|website=cornwall live|date=25 May 2017|accessdate=29 August 2017}}</ref> and for his [[activist|activism]] related to the [[Cornish people|Cornish identity]] debate.<ref name="auto">{{cite web|last1=Simon|first1=Parker|title=Cornwall wants to go it alone|url=https://www.theguardian.com/society/2001/jan/12/localgovernment.devolution|work=The Guardian|date=12 January 2001|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref> In 2012, his book of poems called "Trurra" won a [[Waterstones]] Publishers Award at the Holyer An Gof literary competition.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://gorsedhkernow.org.uk/HolyeranGof/publication_winners_2012.html| url-status = dead| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170830192818/http://gorsedhkernow.org.uk/HolyeranGof/publication_winners_2012.html| archive-date = 2017-08-30| title = Holyer an Gof}}</ref> Elected [[Mayor]] of [[Truro]] for 2019/21, his installation ceremony was streamed online.<ref>{{cite web |author1=Lee Trewhela |title=First time in over 200 years new Truro mayor is sworn in online |url=https://www.cornwalllive.com/news/cornwall-news/first-time-over-200-years-4114205 |website=[[Cornwall Live]] |access-date=8 January 2021 |date=11 May 2020}}</ref>


==Personal life==
==Personal life==
Bert Biscoe was born in [[Stithians, Cornwall]]. He attended [[Truro School]] and his higher education was completed at [[Bangor University]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Biography|url=http://www.bertbiscoe.co.uk/about.html|website=BB|publisher=Bert Biscoe Campaign|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref> He lives in [[Truro, Cornwall]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Bert Biscoe|url=https://democracy.cornwall.gov.uk/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2017|website=Cornwall Gov|publisher=Cornwall Council|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref>
Born in 1952 to Dr Charles Biscoe, a [[Kinship|kinsman]] of the [[Cecil Tyndale-Biscoe|Tyndale-Biscoe]] family,<ref>[https://www.burkespeerage.com/ www.burkespeerage.com]</ref> he was raised at [[Stithians, Cornwall]], and attended [[Truro School]] before going up to [[Bangor University]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Biography|url=http://www.bertbiscoe.co.uk/about.html|website=BB|publisher=Bert Biscoe Campaign|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref>
Married to Susan Barker in 1990, the couple live near [[Truro, Cornwall]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Bert Biscoe|url=https://democracy.cornwall.gov.uk/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2017|website=Cornwall Gov|publisher=Cornwall Council|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref>


==Bardic work==
==Bardic work==
Bert Biscoe is a traditional musician and poet,<ref>{{cite web|title=Dew Vardh, with Bert Biscoe and Pol Hodge|url=http://www.pzlitfest.co.uk/event/dew-vardh-with-bert-biscoe-and-pol-hodge/|website=Penzance Literary Festival|accessdate=13 September 2017}}</ref> specialising in Cornish folk music, some of which is in the [[Cornish language]].<ref>{{cite web|title=A Kynsa|url=http://www.cornwall24.co.uk/viewtopic.php?t=2298|website=Cornwall 24|publisher=Cornwall 24|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref> Some of his audio works have been collected into a compilation titled "An Kynsa".
Bert Biscoe is a traditional musician and poet,<ref>{{cite web|title=Dew Vardh, with Bert Biscoe and Pol Hodge|url=http://www.pzlitfest.co.uk/event/dew-vardh-with-bert-biscoe-and-pol-hodge/|website=Penzance Literary Festival|accessdate=13 September 2017}}</ref> specialising in Cornish folk music, some in the [[Cornish language]].<ref>{{cite web|title=A Kynsa|url=http://www.cornwall24.co.uk/viewtopic.php?t=2298|website=Cornwall 24|accessdate=30 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170830193633/http://www.cornwall24.co.uk/viewtopic.php?t=2298|archive-date=30 August 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> Some of his audio works have been collected into a compilation titled "An Kynsa".


He was created a Bard of the Cornish Gorsedh in 1995 for services to Cornwall with the [[bardic name]] ''Viajor Gans Geryow'', and has been a member of the Council of the Gorsedh since 2009.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gorsedhkernow.org.uk/councilmembers.html|title=Council Members|publisher=[[Cornish Gorsedh]]|accessdate=29 August 2017}}</ref> He is the author of several books of poetry.<ref>{{cite web|title=Jennet Campbell MBE: Cornish Gorsedd Honour - The Radford Charitable Trust|url=http://www.radfordtrust.org/history/jennet-campbell-mbe-gorsedd|website=www.radfordtrust.org|accessdate=13 September 2017|language=en}}</ref> As a bard of the Gorsedh he is regularly in attendance at celebrations of Cornish culture and important cultural occasions.<ref>{{cite web|title=Ceremony welcomes bards from all over the world to Lannstevan|url=http://www.thepost.uk.com/article.cfm?id=108869&headline=Ceremony%20welcomes%20bards%20from%20all%20over%20the%20world%20to%20Lannstevan&sectionIs=news&searchyear=2017|website=Cornish & Devon Post|accessdate=13 September 2017|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Guardians of a rich cultural heritage|url=http://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/guardians-rich-cultural-heritage/story-13155547-detail/story.html|accessdate=13 September 2017|publisher=Cornish Guardian|date=August 18, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Council|first1=Cornwall|title=September 2013 - Cornwall Council|url=https://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:NwyXxkLyjiMJ:https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/council-and-democracy/leaders-blog/september-2013/+&cd=5&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=uk|website=webcache.googleusercontent.com|accessdate=13 September 2017|language=en}}</ref>
Created a Bard of the Cornish Gorsedh in 1995 "for services to Cornwall" with the [[bardic name]] ''Viajor Gans Geryow'',<ref>[https://lordlieutenantofcornwall.org.uk/the-lieutenancy/ www.lordlieutenantofcornwall.org.uk]</ref> Biscoe has been a member of the Council of the Gorsedh since 2009.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gorsedhkernow.org.uk/councilmembers.html|title=Council Members|publisher=[[Cornish Gorsedh]]|accessdate=29 August 2017}}</ref> He is the author of several books of poetry.<ref>{{cite web|title=Jennet Campbell MBE: Cornish Gorsedd Honour - The Radford Charitable Trust|url=http://www.radfordtrust.org/history/jennet-campbell-mbe-gorsedd|website=www.radfordtrust.org|accessdate=13 September 2017|language=en}}</ref> As a Bard of the Gorsedh he is regularly in attendance at celebrations of Cornish culture and important cultural occasions.<ref>{{cite web|title=Ceremony welcomes bards from all over the world to Lannstevan|url=http://www.thepost.uk.com/article.cfm?id=108869&headline=Ceremony%20welcomes%20bards%20from%20all%20over%20the%20world%20to%20Lannstevan&sectionIs=news&searchyear=2017|website=Cornish & Devon Post|accessdate=13 September 2017|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Guardians of a rich cultural heritage|url=http://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/guardians-rich-cultural-heritage/story-13155547-detail/story.html|accessdate=13 September 2017|publisher=Cornish Guardian|date=August 18, 2011}}{{Dead link|date=October 2019 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Council|first1=Cornwall|title=September 2013 - Cornwall Council|url=https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/council-and-democracy/leaders-blog/september-2013/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160827160035/http://www.cornwall.gov.uk/council-and-democracy/leaders-blog/september-2013/|url-status=dead|archive-date=27 August 2016|website=www.cornwall.gov.uk|access-date=13 September 2017|language=en}}</ref>


His poetry centres on the 'spirit of Kernow', he has performed with other bards in Cornwall.<ref>{{cite web|title=Poets lead Cornish revolt against `English imperialism'|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/poets-lead-cornish-revolt-against-english-imperialism-1262185.html|website=The Independent|accessdate=13 September 2017|date=18 May 1997}}</ref>
His poetry centres on the 'Spirit of Kernow', which he has performed with other [[bard]]s in Cornwall.<ref>{{cite web|title=Poets lead Cornish revolt against 'English imperialism'|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/poets-lead-cornish-revolt-against-english-imperialism-1262185.html|website=The Independent|accessdate=13 September 2017|date=18 May 1997}}</ref>


==Political career==
==Political career==
Biscoe was also an independent [[County council|County Councillor]] on [[Cornwall Council]] for [[Truro, Cornwall|Truro]] [[Boscawen (District)|Boscawen District]] until he lost his [[seat]] in the [[2021 United Kingdom local elections|May 2021 elections]].<ref>{{cite web|title=data.ordnancesurvey|url=http://data.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/doc/7000000000044448|website=data|publisher=ordnance survey|accessdate=9 September 2017}} [[Boscawen Park]] is not located in the electoral ward but shares the same name.</ref><ref>Boscawen or Truro Boscawen is an electoral division and area of central Truro. {{cite web|title=ONS Geography Linked Data {{!}} Truro Boscawen|url=http://statistics.data.gov.uk/doc/statistical-geography/E05009275|website=statistics.data.gov.uk|accessdate=9 September 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cornwalllive.com/news/cornwall-news/cornwall-council-elections-see-key-5397398|title = Big names were booted out at Cornwall Council elections|date = 10 May 2021}}</ref> He remains a City [[Councillor]] for [[Truro City Council]], representing the Moresk & Trehaverne Ward.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Councillors |url=https://truro.gov.uk/councillors/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=Truro City Council |language=en-GB}}</ref>
He is currently an independent councillor in [[Cornwall Council]]'s [[Truro, Cornwall|Truro]] [[Boscawen (District)|Boscawen District]]. He is also a city councillor as part of [[Truro City Council]].


Until 2017, he was Cornwall Council's portfolio holder for transport and was responsible for Cornwall's transport links. He was replaced by Councillor Geoff Brown.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/council-and-democracy/profiles-of-cabinet-members/|title=Profiles of Cabinet members - Cornwall Council|first=Cornwall|last=Council|website=www.cornwall.gov.uk}}</ref> During his time in office, he was involved in many projects including the [[A30 road]] improvements at [[Temple, Cornwall]],<ref>{{cite news|title=A30 improvements finish date moves from spring to summer|url=http://www.itv.com/news/westcountry/2017-01-19/a30-improvements-finish-date-moves-from-spring-to-summer/|accessdate=29 August 2017|agency=ITV news|publisher=ITV|date=19 January 2017}}</ref> and one of the failed bus lane projects in [[Truro]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Scrapping of Truro bus lane costs £60,000|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cornwall-34883680|accessdate=29 August 2017|agency=BBC Cornwall|publisher=BBC|date=20 November 2015}}</ref>
Cornwall Council's portfolio holder for [[Transport]] responsible for the county's transport links, in 2017, Biscoe was succeeded by Councillor Geoff Brown.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/council-and-democracy/profiles-of-cabinet-members/|title=Profiles of Cabinet members - Cornwall Council|author=Cornwall Council|website=www.cornwall.gov.uk}}</ref> During his time in office, he was involved in many projects including the [[A30 road]] improvements at [[Temple, Cornwall]],<ref>{{cite news|title=A30 improvements finish date moves from spring to summer|url=http://www.itv.com/news/westcountry/2017-01-19/a30-improvements-finish-date-moves-from-spring-to-summer/|accessdate=29 August 2017|agency=ITV news|publisher=ITV|date=19 January 2017}}</ref> and one of the failed bus lane projects in [[Truro]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Scrapping of Truro bus lane costs £60,000|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cornwall-34883680|accessdate=29 August 2017|agency=BBC Cornwall|publisher=BBC|date=20 November 2015}}</ref>


==Work as local historian==
==Work as local historian==
He is the Chairman of the Truro Civic Society, a registered charity based in Truro,<ref>{{cite web|title=TCS|url=http://trurocivicsociety.com/|accessdate=29 August 2017}}</ref> he is also current President of the [[Truro Old Cornwall Society]].<ref>{{cite web|title=piran day article|url=http://www.falmouthpacket.co.uk/news/15070872.Details_of_this_years_St_Piran__39_s_Day_procession_announced/|website=falmouth packet|accessdate=29 August 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Truro Old Cornwall Society|url=http://www.oldcornwall.net/truro-ocs/4576250937|website=Truro Old Cornwall Society|accessdate=12 September 2017}}</ref> He is also the honorary secretary and a trustee on the board on the [[Royal Cornwall Museum]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Trustees|url=http://www.royalcornwallmuseum.org.uk/about-the-museum/trustees-2|website=Royal Cornwall Museum|publisher=Royal Cornwall Museum|accessdate=29 August 2017}}</ref> He is the author of two books about the history of Cornwall.<ref>Truro Library Archives</ref>
Chairman of the Truro Civic Society,<ref>{{cite web|title=TCS|url=http://trurocivicsociety.com/|accessdate=29 August 2017}}</ref> Biscoe also serves as President of the [[Truro Old Cornwall Society]].<ref>{{cite web|title=piran day article|url=http://www.falmouthpacket.co.uk/news/15070872.Details_of_this_years_St_Piran__39_s_Day_procession_announced/|website=falmouth packet|date=4 February 2017 |accessdate=29 August 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Truro Old Cornwall Society|url=http://www.oldcornwall.net/truro-ocs/4576250937|website=Truro Old Cornwall Society|accessdate=12 September 2017}}</ref> Honorary Secretary and a Trustee on the board on the [[Royal Cornwall Museum]],<ref>{{cite web|title=Trustees|url=http://www.royalcornwallmuseum.org.uk/about-the-museum/trustees-2|website=Royal Cornwall Museum|accessdate=29 August 2017}}</ref> he is the author of two books about the [[history of Cornwall]].<ref>Truro Library Archives</ref>


==Activism==
==Activism==
Bert Biscoe is a relevant figure in the [[Cornish people|Cornish Identity]] debate and has campaigned for increased powers for Cornish local government and the creation of a [[Cornish Assembly]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://democracy.cornwall.gov.uk/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2017|title=Councillor details|accessdate=13 August 2017}}</ref>
Relevant in the [[Cornish people|Cornish Identity]] [[debate]],<ref>[https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/could-cornwall-go-the-same-way-as-scotland-88tgzg3mjd8 www.thetimes.co.uk]</ref> with [[James Whetter|Dr James Whetter]] he popularised the campaign for increased powers for Cornish local government and the creation of a [[Cornish Assembly]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://democracy.cornwall.gov.uk/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2017|title=Councillor details|accessdate=13 August 2017}}</ref>
<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bertbiscoe.co.uk/about.html|title=About Bert Biscoe|accessdate=13 August 2017}}</ref> He has been the chair of the [[Cornish Constitutional Convention]].<ref name="auto"/>
<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bertbiscoe.co.uk/about.html|title=About Bert Biscoe|accessdate=13 August 2017}}</ref> He also served as chairman of the [[Cornish Constitutional Convention]].<ref name="auto"/>


==Books==
==Books==
Bert Biscoe is the author of several books, mainly related to Cornwall and poetry.
Biscoe is the author of several books, mainly related to Cornwall and poetry:
*''MAUDLIN' PILGRIMAGE'', book of verse set in the reign of [[Henry VIII]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Bert|first1=Biscoe|title=MAUDLIN' PILGRIMAGE|url=http://www.oldcornwallshop.net/shop-page/4578430537/'maudlin'-pilgrimage-by-bert-biscoe/6275340|website=oldcornwallshop|publisher=BB|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref>
*''Maudlin' Pilgrimage'', book of verse set in the reign of [[Henry VIII]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Bert|first1=Biscoe|title=MAUDLIN' PILGRIMAGE|url=http://www.oldcornwallshop.net/shop-page/4578430537/'maudlin'-pilgrimage-by-bert-biscoe/6275340|website=oldcornwallshop|publisher=BB|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref>
*''Rebecca'', (1996).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://openlibrary.org/works/OL11611784W/Rebecca|website=Open Library |title=Rebecca |accessdate=18 October 2017}}</ref>
*''Rebecca'' (1996).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://openlibrary.org/works/OL11611784W/Rebecca|website=Open Library |title=Rebecca |accessdate=18 October 2017}}</ref>
*''The dance of the Cornish air'', (1996).<ref>{{cite web|title=the dance of the cornish air|url=https://openlibrary.org/works/OL11611783W/The_dance_of_the_Cornish_air|website=Open Library|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref>
*''The dance of the Cornish air'' (1996).<ref>{{cite web|title=the dance of the cornish air|url=https://openlibrary.org/works/OL11611783W/The_dance_of_the_Cornish_air|website=Open Library|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref>
*''At a wedding with Yeats in Turin'', (2003).<ref>{{cite web|title=At a wedding with Yeats in Turin|url=https://openlibrary.org/works/OL11611782W/At_a_wedding_with_Yeats_in_Turin|website=Open library|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref>
*''At a wedding with Yeats in Turin'' (2003).<ref>{{cite web|title=At a wedding with Yeats in Turin|url=https://openlibrary.org/works/OL11611782W/At_a_wedding_with_Yeats_in_Turin|website=Open library|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref>
*''Trurra'', Published by ''Dew Vardh'', winner of the Waterstones Award at Holyer An Gof Publishers' Awards 2012.<ref>{{cite web|title=gorsedh kernow awards list|url=http://gorsedhkernow.org.uk/HolyeranGof/publication_winners_2012.html|website=gorsedh kernow|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref>
*''Trurra'', published by ''Dew Vardh'', winner of the Waterstones Award at Holyer An Gof Publishers' Awards 2012.<ref>{{cite web|title=gorsedh kernow awards list|url=http://gorsedhkernow.org.uk/HolyeranGof/publication_winners_2012.html|website=gorsedh kernow|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref>
*''Words of Granite'' ({{ISBN|9780946143269}}).<ref>{{cite book|last1=Biscoe|first1=Bert|title=Words of granite : bearing witness : poems of time & place|date=1997|publisher=Lodenek Press|location=Wadebridge|isbn=9780946143269|page=53 |edition=1|url=https://biblio.co.uk/book/words-granite-selected-poems-bert-biscoe/d/956729010|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Biscoe|first1=Bert|title=Words of Granite - Selected Poems|url=https://www.amazon.co.uk/Words-Granite-Selected-Bert-Biscoe/dp/0946143269|website=amazon books|publisher=Lodenek Press|accessdate=30 August 2017|language=English|date=1997}}</ref>
*''Words of Granite'' ({{ISBN|9780946143269}}).<ref>{{cite book|last1=Biscoe|first1=Bert|title=Words of granite : bearing witness : poems of time & place|date=1997|publisher=Lodenek Press|location=Wadebridge|isbn=9780946143269|page=53 |edition=1|url=https://biblio.co.uk/book/words-granite-selected-poems-bert-biscoe/d/956729010|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last1=Biscoe|first1=Bert|title=Words of Granite - Selected Poems|publisher=Lodenek Press|language=English|date=1997|id={{ASIN|0946143269|country=uk}}}}</ref>
*''Mercifully Preserved'' Fictional account of the life of [[Sir John Betjeman]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://oldcornwall.net/shop-page/4578430537/'mercifully-preserved'-by-bert-biscoe/6275356|title=oldcornwall|website=oldcornwall.net}}</ref>
*''Mercifully Preserved'' Fictional account of the life of [[Sir John Betjeman]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://oldcornwall.net/shop-page/4578430537/'mercifully-preserved'-by-bert-biscoe/6275356|title=oldcornwall|website=oldcornwall.net}}</ref>
*''On Yer Trolley: Poems Made During Complete Bed Rest!'', (2008).<ref>{{cite web|last1=Biscoe|first1=Bert|title=On Yer Trolley: Poems Made During Complete Bed Rest!|url=https://www.amazon.com/Yer-Trolley-Poems-During-Complete/dp/0956021816/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8|website=Amazon|publisher=Creative Edge|accessdate=30 August 2017|date=5 December 2008}}</ref>
*''On Yer Trolley: Poems Made During Complete Bed Rest!'' (2008).<ref>{{cite book|last1=Biscoe|first1=Bert|title=On Yer Trolley: Poems Made During Complete Bed Rest!|publisher=Creative Edge|date=5 December 2008|isbn=978-0956021816}}</ref>
*''White Crusted Eyes: Tales of Par'', (2009).<ref>{{cite web|last1=Biscoe|first1=Bert|title=White Crusted Eyes: Tales of Par|url=https://www.amazon.com/White-Crusted-Eyes-Tales-Par/dp/0956021824/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8|website=Amazon|publisher=Creative Edge|accessdate=30 August 2017|date=1 September 2009}}</ref>
*''White Crusted Eyes: Tales of Par'', (2009).<ref>{{cite book|last1=Biscoe|first1=Bert|title=White Crusted Eyes: Tales of Par|publisher=Creative Edge|date=1 September 2009|isbn=978-0956021823}}</ref>
*''MEDITATIONS ON CARN BREA Poems and Pictures from a Cornish Hill'', (2005).<ref>{{cite web|title=MEDITATIONS ON CARN BREA Poems and Pictures from a Cornish Hill by Biscoe Bert: Biffworks, Cornwall Thin Card, First Edition, Signed by Author(s) - Polsue Books|url=https://www.abebooks.co.uk/servlet/BookDetailsPL?bi=15098266886&searchurl=sortby%3D17%26an%3Dbert%2Bbiscoe%2Bcliff%2Bjones|website=www.abebooks.co.uk|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref>
*''Meditations on Carn Brea, Poems and Pictures from a Cornish Hill'' (2005).<ref>{{cite web|title=MEDITATIONS ON CARN BREA Poems and Pictures from a Cornish Hill by Biscoe Bert: Biffworks, Cornwall Thin Card, First Edition, Signed by Author(s) - Polsue Books|url=https://www.abebooks.co.uk/servlet/BookDetailsPL?bi=15098266886&searchurl=sortby%3D17%26an%3Dbert%2Bbiscoe%2Bcliff%2Bjones|website=www.abebooks.co.uk|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref>
*''Accompanied by Larks''.<ref>{{cite web|title=Accompanied by Larks - BISCOE, Bert|url=http://www.cornishbookworld.co.uk/?page=shop/flypage&product_id=62730&keyword=bert+biscoe&searchby=author&offset=0&fs=1|website=www.cornishbookworld.co.uk|accessdate=30 August 2017}}</ref>
*''Accompanied by Larks''.<ref>{{cite web|title=Accompanied by Larks - BISCOE, Bert|url=http://www.cornishbookworld.co.uk/?page=shop/flypage&product_id=62730&keyword=bert+biscoe&searchby=author&offset=0&fs=1|website=www.cornishbookworld.co.uk|accessdate=30 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170830192006/http://www.cornishbookworld.co.uk/?page=shop%2Fflypage&product_id=62730&keyword=bert+biscoe&searchby=author&offset=0&fs=1|archive-date=30 August 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
{{Portal|Cornwall}}
*[[Truro City Council]]
*[[Truro Old Cornwall Society]]
*[[Cornwall Council]]
*[[Cornwall Council]]
*[[Cornish Nationalism]]
*[[Cornish Nationalism]]
*[[Cornish people]]
*[[Cornish Gorseth]]


==References==
==References==

{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}


{{Cornish self-government movement}}
{{cornwall|state=collapsed}}
{{Celts}}

{{authority control}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Biscoe, Bert}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Biscoe, Bert}}
[[Category:Politics of Cornwall]]
[[Category:1952 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Alumni of Bangor University]]
[[Category:People from Cornwall]]
⚫
[[Category:Bards of the Cornish Gorseth]]
[[Category:Cornish-speaking people]]
[[Category:Cornish-speaking people]]
[[Category:Cornish poets]]
[[Category:Alumni of Bangor University]]
[[Category:Year of birth missing (living people)]]
[[Category:Bards of Gorsedh Kernow]]
[[Category:Members of Cornwall Council]]
[[Category:Poets from Cornwall]]
[[Category:Politicians from Cornwall]]
⚫
[[Category:Mayors of places in Cornwall]]
[[Category:Deputy lieutenants of Cornwall]]
[[Category:Politics of Truro]]

Latest revision as of 12:46, 22 October 2024

Bert Biscoe
Picture of a Caucasian bearded man with gray hair and glasses standing against a blue background.
Biscoe in 2015
Born
Martin Biscoe

23 December 1952
NationalityBritish
Other namesViajor Gans Geryow (Kernowek)
OccupationCornwall Councillor
Known forBard of the Cornish Gorseth
Mayor of Truro

Bert Biscoe DL (born 1952), also known by the bardic name Viajor Gans Geryow,[1][2] is a Cornish politician, historian and bard of the Cornish Gorseth.[3] Biscoe represented Cornwall Council's Truro Boscawen District as an independent Cornwall Councillor until 2019, serving as an independent Truro City Council Councillor for the new Boscawen & Redannick Ward.[4]

Bert Biscoe is known for his work as a local historian[5] and for his activism related to the Cornish identity debate.[6] In 2012, his book of poems called "Trurra" won a Waterstones Publishers Award at the Holyer An Gof literary competition.[7] Elected Mayor of Truro for 2019/21, his installation ceremony was streamed online.[8]

Personal life

[edit]

Born in 1952 to Dr Charles Biscoe, a kinsman of the Tyndale-Biscoe family,[9] he was raised at Stithians, Cornwall, and attended Truro School before going up to Bangor University.[10]

Married to Susan Barker in 1990, the couple live near Truro, Cornwall.[11]

Bardic work

[edit]

Bert Biscoe is a traditional musician and poet,[12] specialising in Cornish folk music, some in the Cornish language.[13] Some of his audio works have been collected into a compilation titled "An Kynsa".

Created a Bard of the Cornish Gorsedh in 1995 "for services to Cornwall" with the bardic name Viajor Gans Geryow,[14] Biscoe has been a member of the Council of the Gorsedh since 2009.[15] He is the author of several books of poetry.[16] As a Bard of the Gorsedh he is regularly in attendance at celebrations of Cornish culture and important cultural occasions.[17][18][19]

His poetry centres on the 'Spirit of Kernow', which he has performed with other bards in Cornwall.[20]

Political career

[edit]

Biscoe was also an independent County Councillor on Cornwall Council for Truro Boscawen District until he lost his seat in the May 2021 elections.[21][22][23] He remains a City Councillor for Truro City Council, representing the Moresk & Trehaverne Ward.[24]

Cornwall Council's portfolio holder for Transport responsible for the county's transport links, in 2017, Biscoe was succeeded by Councillor Geoff Brown.[25] During his time in office, he was involved in many projects including the A30 road improvements at Temple, Cornwall,[26] and one of the failed bus lane projects in Truro.[27]

Work as local historian

[edit]

Chairman of the Truro Civic Society,[28] Biscoe also serves as President of the Truro Old Cornwall Society.[29][30] Honorary Secretary and a Trustee on the board on the Royal Cornwall Museum,[31] he is the author of two books about the history of Cornwall.[32]

Activism

[edit]

Relevant in the Cornish Identity debate,[33] with Dr James Whetter he popularised the campaign for increased powers for Cornish local government and the creation of a Cornish Assembly.[34] [35] He also served as chairman of the Cornish Constitutional Convention.[6]

Books

[edit]

Biscoe is the author of several books, mainly related to Cornwall and poetry:

  • Maudlin' Pilgrimage, book of verse set in the reign of Henry VIII.[36]
  • Rebecca (1996).[37]
  • The dance of the Cornish air (1996).[38]
  • At a wedding with Yeats in Turin (2003).[39]
  • Trurra, published by Dew Vardh, winner of the Waterstones Award at Holyer An Gof Publishers' Awards 2012.[40]
  • Words of Granite (ISBN 9780946143269).[41][42]
  • Mercifully Preserved Fictional account of the life of Sir John Betjeman[43]
  • On Yer Trolley: Poems Made During Complete Bed Rest! (2008).[44]
  • White Crusted Eyes: Tales of Par, (2009).[45]
  • Meditations on Carn Brea, Poems and Pictures from a Cornish Hill (2005).[46]
  • Accompanied by Larks.[47]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Tregarthen, J.C. (2004). John Penrose : a romance of the Land's End ([New ed.]. ed.). Fowey: Cornwall Editions. ISBN 9781904880028. Retrieved 13 September 2017.
  2. ^ "Eseli Konsel Gorsedh Kernow". Gorsedh Kernow. Archived from the original on 30 August 2017. Retrieved 30 August 2017.
  3. ^ www.express.co.uk
  4. ^ www.itv.com
  5. ^ "Squeeze Guts". cornwall live. 25 May 2017. Retrieved 29 August 2017.
  6. ^ a b Simon, Parker (12 January 2001). "Cornwall wants to go it alone". The Guardian. Retrieved 30 August 2017.
  7. ^ "Holyer an Gof". Archived from the original on 30 August 2017.
  8. ^ Lee Trewhela (11 May 2020). "First time in over 200 years new Truro mayor is sworn in online". Cornwall Live. Retrieved 8 January 2021.
  9. ^ www.burkespeerage.com
  10. ^ "Biography". BB. Bert Biscoe Campaign. Retrieved 30 August 2017.
  11. ^ "Bert Biscoe". Cornwall Gov. Cornwall Council. Retrieved 30 August 2017.
  12. ^ "Dew Vardh, with Bert Biscoe and Pol Hodge". Penzance Literary Festival. Retrieved 13 September 2017.
  13. ^ "A Kynsa". Cornwall 24. Archived from the original on 30 August 2017. Retrieved 30 August 2017.
  14. ^ www.lordlieutenantofcornwall.org.uk
  15. ^ "Council Members". Cornish Gorsedh. Retrieved 29 August 2017.
  16. ^ "Jennet Campbell MBE: Cornish Gorsedd Honour - The Radford Charitable Trust". www.radfordtrust.org. Retrieved 13 September 2017.
  17. ^ "Ceremony welcomes bards from all over the world to Lannstevan". Cornish & Devon Post. Retrieved 13 September 2017.
  18. ^ "Guardians of a rich cultural heritage". Cornish Guardian. 18 August 2011. Retrieved 13 September 2017.[permanent dead link‍]
  19. ^ Council, Cornwall. "September 2013 - Cornwall Council". www.cornwall.gov.uk. Archived from the original on 27 August 2016. Retrieved 13 September 2017.
  20. ^ "Poets lead Cornish revolt against 'English imperialism'". The Independent. 18 May 1997. Retrieved 13 September 2017.
  21. ^ "data.ordnancesurvey". data. ordnance survey. Retrieved 9 September 2017. Boscawen Park is not located in the electoral ward but shares the same name.
  22. ^ Boscawen or Truro Boscawen is an electoral division and area of central Truro. "ONS Geography Linked Data | Truro Boscawen". statistics.data.gov.uk. Retrieved 9 September 2017.
  23. ^ "Big names were booted out at Cornwall Council elections". 10 May 2021.
  24. ^ "Councillors". Truro City Council. Retrieved 28 May 2024.
  25. ^ Cornwall Council. "Profiles of Cabinet members - Cornwall Council". www.cornwall.gov.uk.
  26. ^ "A30 improvements finish date moves from spring to summer". ITV. ITV news. 19 January 2017. Retrieved 29 August 2017.
  27. ^ "Scrapping of Truro bus lane costs £60,000". BBC. BBC Cornwall. 20 November 2015. Retrieved 29 August 2017.
  28. ^ "TCS". Retrieved 29 August 2017.
  29. ^ "piran day article". falmouth packet. 4 February 2017. Retrieved 29 August 2017.
  30. ^ "Truro Old Cornwall Society". Truro Old Cornwall Society. Retrieved 12 September 2017.
  31. ^ "Trustees". Royal Cornwall Museum. Retrieved 29 August 2017.
  32. ^ Truro Library Archives
  33. ^ www.thetimes.co.uk
  34. ^ "Councillor details". Retrieved 13 August 2017.
  35. ^ "About Bert Biscoe". Retrieved 13 August 2017.
  36. ^ Bert, Biscoe. "MAUDLIN' PILGRIMAGE". oldcornwallshop. BB. Retrieved 30 August 2017.
  37. ^ "Rebecca". Open Library. Retrieved 18 October 2017.
  38. ^ "the dance of the cornish air". Open Library. Retrieved 30 August 2017.
  39. ^ "At a wedding with Yeats in Turin". Open library. Retrieved 30 August 2017.
  40. ^ "gorsedh kernow awards list". gorsedh kernow. Retrieved 30 August 2017.
  41. ^ Biscoe, Bert (1997). Words of granite : bearing witness : poems of time & place (1 ed.). Wadebridge: Lodenek Press. p. 53. ISBN 9780946143269. Retrieved 30 August 2017.
  42. ^ Biscoe, Bert (1997). Words of Granite - Selected Poems. Lodenek Press. ASIN 0946143269.
  43. ^ "oldcornwall". oldcornwall.net.
  44. ^ Biscoe, Bert (5 December 2008). On Yer Trolley: Poems Made During Complete Bed Rest!. Creative Edge. ISBN 978-0956021816.
  45. ^ Biscoe, Bert (1 September 2009). White Crusted Eyes: Tales of Par. Creative Edge. ISBN 978-0956021823.
  46. ^ "MEDITATIONS ON CARN BREA Poems and Pictures from a Cornish Hill by Biscoe Bert: Biffworks, Cornwall Thin Card, First Edition, Signed by Author(s) - Polsue Books". www.abebooks.co.uk. Retrieved 30 August 2017.
  47. ^ "Accompanied by Larks - BISCOE, Bert". www.cornishbookworld.co.uk. Archived from the original on 30 August 2017. Retrieved 30 August 2017.
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